Feed company backs efforts to beef up UK dairy herds

A major UK animal feed company is working with a large beef producer in an
effort to help Britain’s dairy farmers increase their returns from the meat
industry, as well as milk.

The UK dairy herd already supplies more than 50% of the cattle processed for
beef in the UK, but BOCM PAULS and the Blade Farming partnership have launched a
new initiative to help dairy farmers increase the number and quality of Holstein
bulls they produce for beef production.

Blade Farming managing director Richard Phelps explained that BOCM PAULS was a
vital partner in the scheme, which uses a network of farmers to rear under
contract according to a strict protocol to turn them into profitable finished
animals with a guaranteed market and contract.

“Producers who sign up through BOCM PAULS will receive regular assistance from a
network of trained advisers who will provide them with a comprehensive feed and
management package,” says BOCM PAULS sales and marketing director Nick Major.

“The rations and diets we provide play a vital role in the production and future
sales across the country, because they have a major influence on the final
quality and flavour of the beef that is produced.”

Mr Major pointed out that BOCM PAULS offered far more than just feed and feeding
advice. It also provided information on forage and grazing management and with
the use of its Dietplan rationing programme it could help farmers make the most
of their home-grown feeds to optimise feed conversion efficiency – and maximise
beef returns.

“Our objective is to help our customers in the dairy industry develop long-term,
sustainable and profitable livestock production businesses,” he explained.